How Dancing On National Dance/Movement Therapy Advocacy Day Can Support Your Life

National Dance/Movement Therapy Advocacy Day is an annual event that takes place on June 13 to promote awareness of the therapeutic benefits of dance and movement. Dance/movement therapy can be a valuable form of treatment that can benefit both the mind and body. Dancing and engaging in regular movement may enable you to express your emotions, improve your self-confidence, connect with others, and reduce your stress levels. Working with a dance/movement therapist in person or online may be an empowering experience that could improve your physical and mental health.

Combining therapy with dance can support your well-being

Connect with an online therapist

History of National Dance/Movement Therapy Advocacy Day

Dance movement therapy was originally used by Marian Chace in the 1940s. Chace successfully used dance as a means of communication and expression with war veterans, as well as withdrawn and mute individuals. Through dance, she was able to break down barriers and support others during difficult times. 

In 1982, National Dance/Movement Therapy Advocacy Day was founded by dance/movement therapists and advocates who recognized the therapeutic potential of movement. The day was established to remember the contributions of therapists like Marian Chace and to raise awareness about the efficacy of dance/movement therapy.

The establishment of National Dance/Movement Therapy Advocacy Day on June 13 each year can also be seen as a way to legitimize dance and movement as effective mental health interventions. 

In 2010, National Dance/Movement Therapy Advocacy Day gained global recognition. From then on, global celebrations and advocacy efforts have continued to highlight the importance of incorporating movement-based approaches into mental health care practices. By 2015, dance/movement therapy had been recognized as an effective treatment method by multiple U.S. states. 

Therapeutic benefits of movement

Dance/movement therapy is a form of expressive therapy that typically utilizes movement and dance to support overall well-being. 

Dance/movement therapy can give individuals the chance to express themselves mentally, physically, and emotionally so they can enhance their overall well-being, process difficult emotions, and promote feelings of happiness. 

Below are several of the benefits associated with this type of therapy:

• Physical well-being: Dance and movement activities can improve overall physical fitness, support cardiovascular health, and enhance flexibility, strength, and endurance.
• Emotional expression: Dance and movement activities can serve as an outlet for expressing and processing difficult emotions.
• Stress reduction: Research suggests that dance interventions can reduce stress. 
• Self-confidence: Participating in dance and movement activities can boost self-esteem and self-confidence by providing opportunities for growth and personal expression, which can be especially impactful if you are looking for new passions or struggling with body image.
• Social connection: Since dance and movement activities sometimes require multiple participants, they can be great opportunities to connect with loved ones, strengthen bonds between friends, or create new social connections. Enjoying a vibrant dance atmosphere can be an excellent way to maintain health and make friendships along the way. 
• Mind-body connection: Dance and movement practices encourage mind and body awareness and connection, which can have a positive impact on other areas of life. Some professional athletes engage in dance and movement activities to promote physical integration, which generally refers to the development of coordination, flexibility, and strength. 

There are many options available to help you integrate dance and movement into your life. You might try formal dance/movement therapy sessions, dance classes, dancing on your own at home, or taking a leisurely stroll outdoors. 

Dancing for connection, expression, and well-being

Dance can foster a sense of connection with yourself and the people around you, promote emotional well-being, and benefit overall mental health. Dance can have a positive effect on the social inclusion of older adults, so members of the community may use dance as a means to come together in an inclusive environment that supports social connection. 

Dance and movement activities can also encourage empathy and understanding among participants since they may spend time together mastering new skills. 

Dance can offer numerous benefits for overall emotional and physical well-being. A 2020 study found that dancing could positively impact older adults’ endurance and mobility, for example. Emotionally, dance can improve mood and reduce feelings of sadness or depression, potentially leading to a more joyful and fulfilling life. 

How to participate in dance and movement activities 

If you are looking for dance and movement opportunities, there may be various events, clubs, classes, and organizations with which to get involved. You might search for occasions in your local community online or via social media if you are interested in making dance a part of your life. Here are some other suggestions for getting involved with dance and movement activities:

1. Attend a live music concert or performance where dancing is encouraged.
2. Take dance classes at a local studio or community center, trying styles like salsa, hip-hop, ballet, and contemporary dance.
3. Join a social dance club or meetup group to practice dancing with others in a relaxed and supportive environment.
4. Participate in themed dance parties or events hosted by dance studios, clubs, or cultural organizations.
5. Organize a dance and movement themed gathering with friends or family, featuring activities like Twister or dance choreography competitions.
6. Explore online resources for virtual dance and movement classes, especially if you would rather engage in activities from the comfort of your own home.

You can experiment with different forms of movement to find the right fit for you. It can be important to have self-compassion and avoid judgment or comparison with others, since everyone may have different bodies and capabilities. Alternating between various types of movement can help you create a flexible routine and remain consistent.

Combining therapy with dance can support your well-being

Connect with an online therapist

Seeking professional guidance

If you’d like to experience the benefits of dance/movement therapy for yourself, you might begin by looking for specialized mental health professionals in your local area.

Another option may be to seek the guidance of a licensed dance/movement therapist through an online therapy platform. Online therapy generally enables you to connect with a larger pool of therapists than you may have access to locally. It can also add convenience to the therapy process by allowing you to attend sessions from the location of your choice at a time that fits your schedule.

Although not much research currently exists on the efficacy of online dance/movement therapy, one 2023 study reported that it could reduce dissociative symptoms in individuals with depersonalization/derealization disorder by improving mindfulness and interoceptive awareness.

Studies suggest that in-person dance/movement therapy can be effective in treating depression and other mental health challenges, and research supports the idea that online therapy is typically just as effective as in-person therapy.